North Korean leader in China

North Korea's secretive leader Kim Jong-il was in Beijing for what appeared to be a summit with Chinese leaders. Meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao, there were hugs and a handshake and some talk about how the bond between the two countries would continue for generations. There was no open discussion about Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader's youngest son --- the man many believe will eventually take over from his father. In a statement released by state media after the visit, the countries say their alliance is "sealed in blood" and will pass on to their successors. Beijing has shored up its support for Pyongyang in the past two years and is expected to remain close even as Kim prepares to hand over power to his son --- a move some analysts believe would be trigger an economic collapse in North Korea. Deborah Gembara, Reuters.

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